B R I D G E P A R T N E R S

Wireless Network Security

With the explosion in “WiFi” wireless networks, a new and very real threat to companies has emerged, against which most are as yet unprotected. Many organisations are introducing this new and very useful technology to their networks without fully understanding the security implications.

What are the dangers?

Recent intruder activities such as “warchalking” and “wardriving” have captured the media’s attention and increased awareness of wireless network security risks. These risks are basically:

1. Unauthorised use of your internet connection

Alongside the enormous growth in WiFi, there is a broadband revolution going on. This means that fast internet connections could be used by intruders, causing excess traffic and overloading of your service.

2. Unauthorised access to your internal servers and confidential data

Given enough time, an intruder could work out your computer passwords and gain access to your data.

3. An intruder reading the network traffic as it flows across the network

By using a WiFi listening tool, an intruder can listen in on network traffic. When a document is viewed from across the network, the intruder can see that information. This requires sophisticated software and some expertise on the part of the intruder, but is still a real danger.

Making your wireless network more secure

The designers of WiFi have incorporated measures to prevent intruders from gaining access to your wireless network. Depending on your specific requirements, you can use some or all of them. The main measures are as follows:

1. Introducing access lists

Each WiFi card has a unique identification number. Most WiFi networks have a list of allowed cards. Adding only your cards will stop an intruder’s card from accessing your WiFi network.

2. Using encryption

A basic encryption is available in WiFi. Using this will stop an intruder from accessing your wireless network in the short term. It will also stop a casual intruder from seeing data on your network.

3. Hiding your network

Most access points broadcast their WiFi name. This name is used to access a wireless network. Turning this feature off stops the WiFi network from drawing attention to itself.

There are some further precautions you might consider taking, such as:

4. Monitoring WiFi traffic

Software is now available to allow a WiFi network owner to monitor cards that have access to the network. This can alert the network owner if an intruder gains access.

5. Implementing secure VPN for wireless users

For near impenetrability, a WiFi owner can introduce another level of security between the wireless network and the standard wired network. This is a costly exercise really only implemented on networks that contain particularly confidential and sensitive data.

Risks versus benefits of wireless

Wireless is a very flexible, cheap, highly useful and desirable new technology. There are very good reasons to implement it on your network. However, because it can offer intruders an entry point, you need to understand and guard against the dangers. Bridge Partners can help you weigh the benefits of wireless against the risks, and to manage these risks in line with your own security needs. By implementing some of the measures described here, you can greatly reduce the risk of a security breach and still enjoy the many benefits of WiFi.

Bridge Partners can assess the security level of your wireless network by using the tools that intruders commonly employ. We can also explain all the security issues and implement measures to counteract them. We would be delighted to discuss your particular requirements or concerns with you. Please contact us at wireless@bridgepartners.co.uk or on 01223 422150.